Katanin p60 ATPase-containing subunit A1 (KATNA1)

Catalytic subunit of a complex which severs microtubules in an ATP-dependent manner. Microtubule severing may promote rapid reorganization of cellular microtubule arrays as well as the launch of microtubules from the centrosome following nucleation.

Microtubule release from the mitotic spindle poles may allow depolymerization of the microtubule end proximal to the spindle pole, resulting in poleward microtubule flux and poleward motion of chromosome. Microtubule release within the cell body of neurons might be required for their transportation to neuronal processes by microtubule-dependent motor proteins.